learning
from each other: providing an effective resource room in chicago, il1

Agency: CHAC, Inc.
(Size of WtW Program: 700 vouchers)

Challenge

To be successful, a WtW voucher program should provide useful,
timely information regarding neighborhoods, housing options, employment
opportunities, education and training programs, and community services.
Access to such information helps families to lease up successfully
and meet the employment requirements of the WtW voucher program.

Solution: Resource Room in Chicago, IL

A Section 8 Program in Chicago has tackled this challenge by developing
a resource room that provides an efficient, cost-effective way for
clients to gather this information in a convenient, central location.
Since CHAC, Inc. administers the Chicago Housing Authority's Section
8 program and participates in the Metrolinks WtW voucher program,
a joint venture of four PHAs serving the Chicago area, this Resource
Room may also be used by WtW voucher holders.

With its "one-stop shopping" design, the room includes
facilities to access resources, write resumes, and make calls to
inquire about potential employment and make appointments to view
available housing. The following is a partial list of the types
of resources available:

Neighborhood profiles and information on how to identify quality
school systems, childcare services providers, and transportation
routes

Lists of landlords who participate in the Section 8 program

Notices of available units

Information on lead based paint

Job fairs and training opportunities

Information regarding budgeting and credit repair

Information on educational grants and financial aid

Information on starting a business or buying a home

Fair housing and legal services resources

Resources for assistance with substance abuse, domestic violence,
gang prevention, and other family obligations

Landlords also find the Resource Room helpful. They use it for
research purposes and to gain an understanding of various property
management issues and Section 8 regulations. These include Housing
Quality Standards, lead-based paint regulations, landlord training
programs and workshops, tax incentives, weatherization programs,
rehab loans, evictions, conflict resolution, tenant/landlord responsibilities,
fair housing, and more.

Most materials are available in English and Spanish, and there
are many health-related resources, as well as information and services
for people with disabilities.

Implementation

The one-time, initial cost to establish the Resource Room was approximately
$6,000 (construction materials, lighting, and furniture). The ongoing
cost to operate the room is approximately $50,000/year. This figure
covers the space, staff, telephone, equipment, and office supplies.
Nearly all of the materials in the center are obtained from public
organizations and private advocacy and service organizations free
of charge.

The Resource Specialist who manages the Resource Room is an experienced
housing professional familiar with the needs of Resource Room visitors,
as well as the regulations of the Section 8 Program and internal
procedures of the organization. The room itself is attractive, bright
and appropriately furnished with two computer-equipped work stations,
a table and chairs suitable for small meetings or individual work,
several circular brochure stands, and shelves lining the walls to
accommodate printed materials. Users have access to the Internet,
a telephone, and a variety of newspapers.

Results

Nearly 3,000 individuals utilized the Resource Room between July
and December 1999. The center is now serving a minimum of 500 people
a month. On average, the Resource Specialist personally assists
approximately 36 percent of the visitors. User feedback has been
very positive.